The transition to On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) in 1996 marked a significant shift in automotive diagnostics. For enthusiasts and professionals dealing with pre-OBD-II Chrysler vehicles, the DRB-II scan tool remains a relevant piece of technology. Let’s delve into the world of the 1996 Chrysler Drb Scan Tool, exploring its history, features, and enduring appeal in the face of newer diagnostic solutions.
One fascinating aspect uncovered recently is the difference between versions of the ‘DRB-II Operators Manual’. A comparison between a 4/87 edition and a revised 7/89 version revealed that the earlier manual is notably longer. While not drastically different, the 4/87 manual contains details that were condensed or omitted in the revised 7/89 version. This suggests a common occurrence in manual revisions – assumptions of prior knowledge leading to the removal of seemingly basic, yet potentially crucial, information. For instance, the older manual offers more explicit descriptions of initial power-up sequences, including indicator lights and audible signals, details absent in the revised edition. This highlights how “elementary procedures and topics” were better elucidated in the original documentation. The revisions likely aimed for brevity, possibly influenced by production costs per page.
Interestingly, both manuals cover procedures for both carbureted and fuel-injected engines, showcasing the DRB-II’s versatility across different engine management systems of its time. When considered together, these manuals become complementary resources rather than redundant ones. Notably, the earlier edition appears to lack pin-out information for connecting cables, a detail that might be present in supplementary documentation or the revised manual.
Beyond the manuals themselves, other valuable resources for DRB-II users have surfaced. Quick Reference cards designed for 1983-88 models offer concise menu descriptions, aiding in efficient navigation of the tool’s functions. Furthermore, a 1992 Master Tech Reference guide dedicated to DRB-II display abbreviations provides invaluable clarity. Having a printed guide explicitly defining these abbreviations, as opposed to piecing together definitions from service guides during specific procedures, significantly streamlines the diagnostic process. The existence of this Master Tech guide, likely stemming from Chrysler’s training programs, underscores the structured approach to DRB-II diagnostics and the depth of support provided for technicians at the time. Anecdotal mentions online of in-depth articles on data collection and logging using the DRB-II further suggest advanced capabilities and resources associated with this tool, although concrete references remain elusive.
The Microsoft Diagnostic System (MDS), a shop computer developed in partnership with Chrysler, played a pivotal role in accessing a broader spectrum of diagnostic information. Functioning as a DOS-based interface for Technical Service Bulletin CD-ROMs, certain iterations of the MDS even progressed towards Windows 95 before reaching obsolescence.
The advent of OBD-II in 1996 marked a turning point. Chrysler addressed the transition by developing a patented adapter that allowed the continued use of the DRB-II with OBD-II compliant vehicles. However, 1996 also saw the introduction of the DRB-III, which effectively superseded both the DRB-II and the MDS. Employing PC Cards with EEPROM memory, the DRB-III offered enhanced capabilities. Despite its advancements, the DRB-III commands a significant price on the used market, often around $5000 on platforms like eBay, and its backward compatibility with pre-1996 vehicles can be inconsistent, particularly around the launch year. This price point and the nuances of its backward compatibility make the DRB-II, especially from a historical perspective and for specific project needs, an intriguing and potentially more accessible option for those working with older Chrysler vehicles.
